Last reviewed · How we verify
Levonorgestrel IUS
Levonorgestrel IUS is an intrauterine system that releases the synthetic progestin levonorgestrel directly into the uterus to prevent pregnancy through multiple mechanisms including cervical mucus thickening, endometrial suppression, and ovulation inhibition.
Levonorgestrel IUS is an intrauterine system that releases the synthetic progestin levonorgestrel directly into the uterus to prevent pregnancy through multiple mechanisms including cervical mucus thickening, endometrial suppression, and ovulation inhibition. Used for Contraception, Heavy menstrual bleeding (off-label/secondary indication).
At a glance
| Generic name | Levonorgestrel IUS |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Mirena IUS, Paragard IUD, Mirena, Liletta |
| Sponsor | Oregon Health and Science University |
| Drug class | Progestin-releasing intrauterine device (IUD) |
| Target | Progesterone receptor |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Contraception / Gynecology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
The levonorgestrel IUS delivers a continuous low dose of the progestin levonorgestrel locally within the uterine cavity over several years. This creates a hostile environment for sperm penetration by thickening cervical mucus, suppresses endometrial proliferation to prevent implantation, and partially inhibits ovulation. The local delivery minimizes systemic hormone exposure compared to oral contraceptives.
Approved indications
- Contraception
- Heavy menstrual bleeding (off-label/secondary indication)
Common side effects
- Irregular bleeding or amenorrhea
- Headache
- Breast tenderness
- Pelvic pain or cramping
- Acne
- Mood changes
Key clinical trials
- Loxenatide Plus LNG-IUS in Endometrial Atypical Hyperplasia (PHASE2, PHASE3)
- Weight Management Plus LNG-IUS/Megestrol Acetate in Endometrial Atypical Hyperplasia (PHASE2, PHASE3)
- Levonorgestrel-Intrauterine System (LNG-IUS) Insertion in the Postpartum Period (NA)
- A Multicenter Analysis of Levonorgestrel-Intrauterine System (LNG-IUS) Use in the Postpartum Period (NA)
- Levonorgestrel Intrauterine System Effects on Hemoglobin and Serum Ferritin Among Anemic Women in Kenya (NA)
- European Active Surveillance Study of LCS12
- A Study Run At Multiple Study Sites to Test Whether the SAMANTA Questionnaire That is Used to Diagnose Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (HMB), Can Also Be Used to Assess Changes of Severity of HMB in Women with HMB Who Are Treated During 12 Months with a Chronic Hormonal Treatment
- The Effect of Levonorgestrel Intrauterine System in Preventing Endometrial Polyps Recurrence (NA)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |